I recently began working with new clients and have listed their home.  I really enjoy working with this couple for many reasons, but one of them is that they are making it easy to sell their home!  When I was working on my market analysis and doing a walk through of the home, I made recommendations as I always do.  In this case, I recommended that they clean out the basement, go ahead with their plan to replace all the basement windows, attic windows and those in the sunroom.  They had a bathroom shower installation company come in to install a new surround, and will replace all of the switch plate covers and electrical outlets. 

Most sellers are receptive to suggestions regarding what will make their home appealing to buyers, but not all are motivated to put the money into repairs or updates.  It could be a matter of not having the money to invest, or it could be that they don't see the point, not understanding what a difference these small changes could make. 

There are small, inexpensive changes you can make to increase the value of your home.  Here are some suggestions:

• Change your switch plates and outlet covers.  Go with plain white or you could step it up a little and get a brushed nickel, if that goes along with your décor.
• Replace light fixtures.  Where you can, and where necessary, replace ceiling fixtures with a more updated version.  I was at Lowe's recently and saw a 4 pack of modern looking flush mount dome lights for less than $30.
• Tidy up your yard!  Curb appeal happens when you pull up to a house and you find it inviting enough to want to go inside.  How inviting is a home with trash, leaves, branches, toys, tires, old lawn furniture in the front yard?   Get rid of or store any lawn furniture that's not so easy on the eyes.  Put the kids' toys away.  Grab the rake and get those leaves off your grass!  And while you're at it, mow the lawn.  Rent a power washer and give the house, garage and deck a once over.
• Keep it clean. I realize that if you're a family with small kids, it's not always possible... but the reality is, if you're trying to sell your home, it needs to be clean.  Period.
• It should smell good.  I've walked into homes before where the owners were smokers.  You can tell the minute you walk in, and honestly, it's a turn off for most people.  What can you do if you're a smoker?  You can start smoking outside.  If you have carpets, replace them or have them deep cleaned.  Paint your walls.  If there are smokers in the house, another telltale sign is yellow walls.
• Replace hardware in the kitchen.  It doesn't cost much to replace your cabinet knobs with a nice brushed nickel, and it really makes a difference.
• Paint.  You may love your orange kitchen, but the truth is, most people prefer a neutral tone.  And they have to be able to "see" their style fitting in.  So grab some cream, taupe, very light yellow, or white paint and spend the weekend painting.  Also, if you have wallpaper, take it down.

Big money renovations are not worth the effort in this market.  The smart money is in the details.

Bob Black REALTOR Williams & Stuart Real Estate 870 Oaklawn Ave Cranston, RI, 02920	Work: 401.942.0200 ext 28 Mobile: 401.261.1599 Bob@BobBlackOnline.com www.BobBlackOnline.com
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